A call centre which employs out-of-work actors to operate the switchboards has started its own agency to find them parts on the stage or TV.

East London Advertiser: Waiting for that call for the 'big break'Waiting for that call for the 'big break' (Image: RSVP)

The RSVP centre at the Isle of Dogs in east London already operates a flexi-policy of letting its staff go if they land auditions.

Today it officially launches its own performers’ agency to find them work—even though it means them quitting the switchboard at short notice.

“It’s an idea that’s been bubbling away in our minds for a long time,” call centre director Mark Abernethy explained.

“It just makes sense as a company run by actors for actors to offer our staff an in-house agency. This is the next natural step.”

East London Advertiser: The busy RSVP call centre at South Quay, Isle of DogsThe busy RSVP call centre at South Quay, Isle of Dogs (Image: RSVP)

The company is offering the world of TV, radio, film and theatre a databank of talent that already performs daily when talking to callers.

It has been employing actors for 28 years, supporting its staff to pursue their dreams, allowing them time off at the drop of a hat to attend auditions, castings or to record self-tapes.

The new RSVP Artists agency is aimed at helping the call-centre team to find professional rolls to perform.

Staff get representation once they complete an induction and are represented in the same way as other commercial agencies, with a named agent responsible for supporting the artist in their chosen career.

It looks after submissions for auditions and runs advice surgeries, supporting the actors, actresses, dancers and singers at every stage of their career.

Reduced costs are also in the package for headshots, hairdressing and beauty treatments as well as free rehearsal spaces at the call centre in South Quay, by Canary Wharf.